April 2012
OUR TOWNE
complimentary
Complimentary
Our Towne Your Hometown Community Resource
Rensselaer County’s Community Resource
Home Renovations Autism Awareness Month Spring Cleaning & Clearing Summer Camps & Enrichment
Players from STRIDE Twin Towne League Our&Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
Table of Contents Our Towne O T Rensselaer R l County C t April 2012 In Every Issue Community Calendar (20-21) Wellness (34-36) Message from the Vet (24) Feng Shui Design for Your Home (10) Your Home Guide (4-8) Hidden Gems Series - Jet’s Collision Repair (15) Book Review (23) APRIL Features Home Improvements (4-5) Home Renovation Tips (5) Real Estate Classified (24) Summer Camps & Enrichment Programs (26-29) AUTISM AWARENESS (29) Geneology Series? (34) Local teacher, car enthusiast & monthly contributor Darren Rosenbaum writes about our Hidden Gem - Jet’s Collision Repair in Nassau
EDITOR’s NOTE Dear Reader, As the mother of a child with Autism I am excited to spread the word about Autism during Autism Awareness month (April) with a photo of my very special son on the cover. Inside I explain why awareness is so important to all of us affected by Autism. In this issue Our Towne examines which home projects are the best investment in today’s economy, showcasing a variety of home improvement contractors, tips & ideas for sprucing up & cleaning out your interior & exterior this spring. If you are like most parents, you are looking for ideas for summer camp & enrichment programs. Our Towne has a handy guide to help you figure it out. Geneologist Lisa Dougherty is back with more interesting tidbits about family history. Car enthusiast Darren Rosenbaum writes about our latest “hidden gem’ , et’s Collision Repair in Nassau. As always, enjoy this issue & tell our advertisers you saw them in OUR TOWNE!! Thanks Debbie Gaylord, Publisher
Contributors Local geneologist and contributor Lisa Dougherty writes about exploring your family history
Publisher/ Editor/ Sales/Design Debbie Gaylord 518-641-9330 debbie@ourtownerensco.com www.ourtownerensco.com Our Towne’s Mission Our Towne seeks to connect local businesses to local consumers by highlighting the best of what Rensselaer County and the surrounding areas have to offer. All Rights Reserved ~ Our Towne is published by Our Towne Marketing & Consulting LLC, 1077 Schodack Landing Road, Schodack Landing, NY 12156; 518-641-9330. Published monthly and distributed free of charge. 2
April 2012
Darren Rosenbaum, Dr. David Stone, DVM, Dr. Amy Cole, Diane Lehmuler Hardy, Lynn Catelotti Bridgette Chandler, Danielle Morris, Dr. Patrick Bergmann, Dr. Joe Lapinski
Catherine Sager (Photography) Lisa Dougherty Edward Pratt Steven Noel
Sales Debbie Gaylord Linda Scutari
y
Old-Fashioned Personal Service Meeting Your Modern Healthcare Needs
t
DELI
FREE Local Delivery No-Hassle Prescription Transfer Accepting All Major Insurances Stephanie Young
Miller Young
Family Owned & Operated
-
Come Visit Our
Delicious Soups & Sandwiches
1636 Burden Lake Rd ~ Averill Park, NY ~ WWW. AverillParkPharmacy.com phone: 518-674-3663 ~ fax: 518-674-1400
Bud’s Florist & Greenhouses Easter Flowers
1614 Route 9 Castleton
.. A p r i l . junction rts 9&20 1.5 miles south of
Tulips ~ Easter Lillies ~ Daffodils Pansies ~ Hydrangeas ~Azaleas ~ Hyacinth many sizes
-
Beautiful Spring Arrangements, plant baskets, candy, plush animals & balloons!
ADMINISTRATIVE ADMINISTRA ADMINIS TRA TR RATIVE IV VE ASSISTANT’s A SSISTA SSISTAN TANT’ T’ss DAY AY
Say Thank You to Yoour Administrative Assistan nt with a beautiful bouquet, gift, vase orr plant for her desk!
GAR GA ARD RDEN NIING Outdoor oor Garden Garden Plants Plants Perennia Perennials rennial als ls Cold We Weat Weather ather ve vegetable vegetables etab abless Seedss Our Greenhouse se is Ful Full Fu ll
April 23-27
732-7563 or 1-800-437-8527
www.budsfloristandghses.com Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
3
HOME RENOVATION
S P
HINDSIGHT Changes Everything
S a L
Home Reno Redux - What I Would do Differently in 2012 by Debbie Gaylord When it comes to choosing how to invest money in your home a lot has changed in a short time. In 2005, my husband and I decided a home renovation project in upstate New York was a good investment. We purchased an historic home with the goal of updating it and increasing the square footage to accommodate our large family. We chose to put an addition on the home that would include a garage, a new kitchen Before and two master suites. We also felt that the 200 yearold home would benefit from an overhall of its bones. Beginning with the stone foundation, we had a structural engineer plan out where the home needed support, and placed over 25 steel posts in the basement, along with a new cement wall where the addtion was to be built. We also spent the extra time and money to completely replace the electrical, plumbing & heating systems and all the windows from the basement to the attic. We put on vinyl siding, a new roof, replaced the front porch, paved the driveway and had some landscaping done. Fast forward to 2012 to our present economy and we will never recoup our investment. Had we known what was to come we may not have gone so far in our vision.
at the time heating oil was about $2.32 a gallon! (Remember those days?) We removed the old woodstove and chimney that was in the original home and each winter we regret that decision. The new kitchen is a keeper. It is spacious and comfortable. Kitchen investments almost always help sell a house and increase its value. The garage is useful too since the house was lacking one and any modern family needs a place to store all their stuff! The new front porch and landscaping help the curb appeal. The second floor of the addition would have been eliminated in our project. It is nice to have the extra space but it is a luxury not a necessity and we could have saved a bundle.
After
While it is interesting to wonder what could have been but unfortunately no one has a crystal ball. In today’s tough economy people demand a big bang for the investment in a home renovation project. People are more conservative than we were seven years ago but that is because they have to be.
So the nagging question is - if we were to renovate in 2012, which projects are keepers in terms of long term benefits to our family and to our investment? To be sure, there were certain projects that were necessary. The foundation had to be secured, the plumbing & heating needed to be replaced, and the Energy Star windows and siding were a good investment for keeping the home warmer during the winter. But while the heating system and new plumbing were necessities, I would definitely have invested in solar energy at least for the hot water heater. Also, a new fireplace or woodstove would now be a necessity but 4
April 2012
TOP INVESTMENTS IF WE DID THE PROJECT TODAY
~ KITCHEN ~ 2-CAR GARAGE ~ ENERGY STAR REPLACEMENT WINDOWS ~ WOODSTOVE OR FIREPLACE ~ NEW ELECTRIC, PLUMBING & HEATING ~ SOLAR ENERGY
1. se
2. yo de
3. as so
4. Be pr
5. pr sio
a
-
S o m e Ti p s f r o m a Professional
McGovern Electrical Services Inc
Steve Noel at A-Z Landscaping
locally owned & operated
477-7354
1. Choose a contractor that is reputable. Ask to see their previous work. 2. Update kitchens, bathrooms and exterior - where you can get a return on your money if and when you decide to sell. 3. If budget is tough - start with something as simple as painting the inside of your home one room at a time so you don’t feel overwhelmed. 4. Start with the top of your house and work down. Be sure your roof doesn’t leak before you start inside projects. Keep in mind most shingles only last 25 years. 5. Assess your project before you jump into it. Not all projects are for the home owner and require a professional. Don’t get in over your head.
25 years K i Keeping Local Families & Businesses Safe f
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
Full House Generators ArcFault Fire Prevention Breaker Installation All Phases of Home Wiring Pools, Hot Tubs, Accent Lighting Patented Commercial Lighting Control Systems
24 hour emergency service licensed & Insured
Proudly providing residential and commercial services to the Capital District for over 17 years Free Estimates
rs
locally owned and operated
Custom Painting Services... t Drywall Patch and Repair t Staining/Varnishing t Interior & Exterior Painting
Licensed & Insured
CALL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE
518-424-0078 info@aaaseasonsbest.com
Specializing In... t Pressure Cleaning t Kitchen & Bath Remodeling t Tile & Hardwood Floors t New Construction & Additions
t Decks & Fencing Design & installation
www.aaaseasonsbest.com Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
5
YOUR SPRING HOME PROJECTS THE CAPITAL REGION’S PREMIER
FREE - NO COST
SCRAP METAL REMOVAL/ RECYCLING SERVICE anything metal ~ large/small appliances ~ wire ~motors ~ tools ~ sheds ~ batteries ~ bicycles ~ computers ~ televisions ~ all electronics
Steven & Teresa Aborist Landscaper
‡ Mulching & Chipping ‡ Stump Removals ‡ Pruning & Cabling ‡ Portable Saw Mill
30 YEARS EXPERTISE
479-0729
‡ Bucket Truck ‡ Tree Removals ‡ Landscape & Design ‡ Yard Cleanups ‡ Mantles
We also Offer Reasonably Priced Clean Out and Debris Removal Services
Call Us at 505-5055 Residential * Commerical * Insured
Artful Things
Rustic Furniture ~ Jewelry ~ Pottery & More
“Don’t Worry....We Can Take It!�
86 5W 1DVVDX ‡ ZZZ &DSLWDO6DZPLOO FRP
www.scrapster.com
FREE New York State DEC Approved Electronics Recycling Location
A-Z
LANDSCAPING WWW.AZLANDSCAPING.COM
_ _
View Our Custom Designed Work Online!
$&35*'*&% 7&34" -0, retaining wall systems installer
$&35*'*&% $45 Brick Paver Installer
t 3FUBJOJOH 8BMMT t 1BUJPT t 1JMMBST t 4FBUJOH 8BMMT t 8BMLXBZT t 1PPM "SFBT Re-Decking t 5SFY %FDLJOH
t "XBSE 8JOOJOH 8BUFS 'FBUVSFT t &YQFSU -BOETDBQF %FTJHO t -BOETDBQF -JHIUJOH Fully Insured Free Estimates
BOOK NOW!!! Limited Bookings for 2012 6
April 2012
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
7
Five Ordinary Household Products for Cleaning Green by Diane Lehmuler-Hardy of designsense
Going green improves the indoor air quality in your home, reduces your families’ exposure to toxins and saves you money at the supermarket. Here is a list of five very ordinary household products that are an easy way to clean green. 1.Distilled white vinegar is a proven household cleaner. You can use it to remove stains, dissolve grease, remove soap buildup and deodorize your home. It is ideal for mopping floors, just fill a bucket with hot water, 1 cup vinegar and a drop of dish liquid for tile and linoleum or a few drops of olive oil for wood floors. 2. Lemon juice is a natural odor eater and can be used to remove stains from copper and aluminum pots and pans, porcelain and clothing. It is ideal for cleaning Formica surfaces! The next time your recipe calls for lemon juice, rub the used lemon half along your countertop then wipe with soapy water and rinse. 3. Table salt is an effective all natural scouring powder and works well to remove rust. When mixed with lemon juice, it can clean copper; when mixed with white vinegar, it can be used to polish brass. 4. Baking Soda has so many uses you should keep a box in every room! It works in the bathroom to unclog drains and can be used to scrub shiny faucets without scratching. In the kitchen, you can use it to deodorize your refrigerator/freezer and extinguish grease fires. It works great on stainless steel sinks, it scrubs without scratching. You can also use it to removed hardened crust from a pot or pan. Use 2 tablespoons of baking soda per quart of water, bring to a boil and let the pan cool; the give your room a crust will lift right off. whole new look in just hours!!! 5. Essential Oils Add a few drops of Tea Tree Oil to white vinegar and water and you have a powerful disinfectant. Other Same Day ~ Same Stuff ~ NEW LOOK essential oils can take the place of store bought (and chemicalSchedule decorating makeovers using the your based) air fresheners, try adding a few drops of lavender oil appointment furniture and accessories you already own today! to cedar chips and create your own calming potpourri for the tm bedroom. Most health food stores carry essential oils, you can COLOR SELECTION ~ RESALE READY ~ STAGING create your own signature combination or buy a pre-blended www.designsensebydiane.comco518-330-3454 oil. Have fun and experiment!
One Day Decorating
P E
5
1
8
April 2012
4
GOLDKREST FAMILY FARM FLOWERS TREES MULCH FIREWOOD TOPSOIL FIRE WOOD
Dust Busters
We Clean So You Don’t Have To!!! Route 9J Rensselaer 365-5969 465-0437
Painting Carpet Cleaning Kymberly Fletcher Owner
Chris’ Burner Service, LLC
Spring Cleaning Clean Outs Inside & Outside
518-209-2345 Scatinthehat74@aol.com
Structure A Photographic Exhibit
Specializing in oil burner service for over 20 years.
East Greenbush Library
477-2220
by Lynn Huntington
PO Box 550 East Greenbush
518-828-9337
fully insured
1871 Route 9H Hudson, NY
Shopping Laundry
APRIL 2012
Open Mon-Fri 8:30-5pm & Sat 9-4pm
Check Out Amanda’s Delivery BACKYARD! Free & Assembly VERMONT CASTINGS BBQ Grill ON SALE NOW!
$699 Reg. $899
www.amandasfireplaces.com
:22' 3(//(76 A TON
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
9
Feng Shui Design for Spring
C
by Danielle Morris Showroom Assistant
East Greenbush Window Coverings
by Lorraine Greaney
Spring is finally here! The sun is out (most of the time…), the birds are singing, and it’s time to declutter and bring a fresh, peaceful start to your interiors! To get you moving forward in the right direction, I will tell you a little about concepts of Feng Shui. Basically, Feng Shui is the idea that each space has a certain energy to it and our spaces reflect the way our energy is presently. One of the biggest parts of feng shui is reducing most if not all clutter that you have accumulated. Have random piles in your room? Then go through them and either toss or put away in a more appropriate place. The word ‘feng’ literally means wind, and the word ‘shui’ literally means water. Both words are associated with free flowing movement, or free flowing energy and so the placement of furniture in a room all has an impact on the way we feel, whether we may know it or not. And that is the theory of feng shui. Here are some tips and feng shui guidelines to make you feel more in balance and energized in your daily life –just by changing elements in your living space: Official definition: Feng Shui is the study of the relationships between the environment and human life. Discovered by the Chinese, Feng Shui has been practiced for centuries to design environments that enhance conditions for success in life and health. • Placement of furniture in a room. In feng shui, an important rule to live by is not to place anything that will block free flowing movement. So make sure that nothing in your walking path when designing a room that you may bump into. • Always place furniture facing the door and as far away from the door as possible. If you are unable to do this, it is recommended to place a mobile, chandelier, or hanging crystal from the ceiling in front of the door. • For the bedroom-no television, computer, or exercise
10
April 2012
equipment. What? NO TECHNOLOGY? I know this seems daunting for most of us in modern world, but according to Feng Shui this will bring about a more peaceful free flowing energy to the room. (And that’s what we want for sleep right?) The electro magnetic fields from computers, tv, etc. can disrupt the natural sleep process. • Breathe fresh air—open your windows as often as possible, let the old air out and bring the clean, new air in. If this isn’t possible, invest in a good quality air purifier. • Use soothing colors in the bedroom as well, and many levels of lighting, i.e. from your window, recess lighting, lamps, and candles without toxins (beeswax or soy are good options) A skin color palette (so many varieties) is best for the feng shui bedroom, anywhere from creams to rich chocolate colors would be best. • Artwork: Choose art work that best represents the direction in which you want your life to go, perhaps something colorful and uplifting, or serene and peaceful. Stay away from artwork that might make you feel confused, sad, or anxious. A space with good feng shui will emanate love, healing, and relaxation. Every item in your bedroom, or other space should have a place to go. If you have items that are all over the place (I am sometimes guilty of this…) you should find ways to contain them in an more functional way so your energy fields can be free flowing and clear! Ahh, doesn’t that feel better now that all that good positive chi is entering your life? Happy Spring! For more ideas creating a space that is more ‘feng shui” come to East Greenbush Window Coverings today! We offer color consultations and can give you suggestions on furniture placement ! For more inspirational ideas, please stop by East Greenbush Window Coverings today and we’ll get you started in the right direction! East
Greenbush Window Coverings is located at 568 Columbia Turnpike; 477-9025; open M-F 9-5:30 & Sat 10-2; www.EastGreenbushWindowCoverings.com
1 3
4
o ng
tc.
e, n’t
vps,
rs e n a e l C Crown
Aqua Clean System environmentally safe
us.
(I n
CAR WASH
local lo calllly lly ow owne need ned & oppeerratteed d
1 hour dry cleaning
2 piece suits ~$12.50 Pants ~ $6.10 4 day drape service Plain Dresses ~ $10.50 627 Columbia Tnpk Laundered Shirts $2.15 Expert Tailoring East Greenbush
3 hour shirt laundry
Same Day Service Mon -Fri in by 12 Sat in by 10
(518) 477- 4607 OPEN: Mon-Sat 7am to 6pm
The Schodack SCENE a local blog
he
on or-
Shine Time
Schodack Castleton Everyday News & Events An online publication
http://thescene-thescene.blogspot.com Catherine Sager, Managing Editor (518) 732-0382 catherine.sager@yahoo.com
1515 Columbia Turnpike
Just off exit 10 of I-90 Easy On - Easy Off
Visit our
website to
S c h o d a c k
become a member for BIG $Savings!!
477-9140
www.shinetimecarwash.com t 1 Touch-Free Automatic Bay t 3 Self Serve Bays with Extra High Entrance t Detailing by Appointment t Vacuum & Carpet Shampooer 20124
$1 OFF touch free automatic with our local Customer Appreciation CODE
e
n
w
st en
East Greenbush Window Coverings 518-477-9025
568 Columbia Tpke Suite 8B East Greenbush Mon-Fri 9-5:30 & Sat 10-2
www.eastgreenbushwindowcoverings.com
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
11
*,)7 &(57,),&$7(6 AVAILABLE
HAPPY APRIL!!!!! I think we all can agree how incredible our weather has been and how the sunshine just makes us smile. We have been busy here at Krafts by Kim with our Spring Cleaning making URRP IRU QHZ DQG H[FLWLQJ SURGXFW 2XU QHZ DUULYDO RI Ă&#x20AC;RZHUV DUH not only beautiful they are SPECTACULAR. We will be hard at work designing our fabulous wreaths and door decor along with many other designs. Our line of Caromal Color paints, which are featured in Âł&RXQWU\ /LYLQJ´ DUH Ă&#x20AC;\LQJ RII WKH VKHOYHV *UHDW IRU DQ\ SURMHFWV ELJ or small. I would be glad to show you how fabulous and easy they DUH WR XVH $OVR WKH PRVW UHFHQW -XG\ &RQGRQ ERRN MXVW DUULYHG Âł-XVW &RXQWU\ *DUGHQV´ IHDWXULQJ RYHU color photographs of homes/gardens in the United States. So many amazing ideas you will truly love this one.... We certainly have had alot of interest of potential buyers for Krafts by Kim. Please do not hesitate if you think you might want to take advantage of this incredible opportunity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your dreams be dreamsâ&#x20AC;?. Stop by and see me real soon cause the ideas are endless and the possibilities hold no limits....+$33< 635,1*
www.kraftbykim.com 395 Columbia Tpke, East Greenbush, NY
STORE HOURS: Wed. & Fri. 10-5:30 / Thursday 10-6/ Saturday 10-4 / Sunday 11-3 Closed Monday & Tuesday 518.477.1274
%JBNPOET 1SFDJPVT (FNTUPOFT t #VMPWB $JUJ[FO 8JUUOBVFS 8BUDIFT
Your Full Service Jeweler
Stop in and Enter to win a DU %JBNPOE 4PMJUBJSF 1FOEBOU TFU JO L XIJUF HPME One entry per person, OP QVSDIBTF OFDFTTBSZ
Discover a Gem In Downtown Troy
n bor ld) e r o e u w years ift! o ff er y 0 g If O 6 e ( 52 r a fre e) ilv % 9 1 S 0 o u in 6 in f $60 Val p o t of e, & s (A
Fre for e laya Mo wa the y no r â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s w Da y
on tiqu i t lec , An e e s ew g lar y! N A elr w Je
60 th Anniversary $FMFCSBUJPO %JBNPOE Jubilee
Antique & Estate Jewelry WE BUY GOLD
5IJSE 4USFFU t 5SPZ /: t t XXX SPNBOBUJPO DPN 12
April 2012
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
13
Artful Things Antiques ~ Jewelry ~ Pottery & More A Wonderful New Shop & Gallery
Truly Rhe
The Unique Boutique One Broadway Troy, NY 12180 273-1540
Handcrafted Bartops & Mantles installation available
OpenTues -Fri 10-6 & Sat 10-3
479-0729 ~ 4119 US Rt. 20, Nassau (at Capital Saw Mill)
Let Truly Rhe Dress You in Color This Spring
&ORWKLQJ a -HZHOU\ a $FFHVVRULHV 6KRSSLQJ 3DUWLHV Open Tues 12-5, Wed-Fri 11-6, Sat 10-4, Sun 11-3 (closed Monday)
www.trulyrhe.com
1629 Columbia Turnpike Schodack, NY
4 Bench Jewelers on Premises
477-6555
Custom Designs, Laser Welding, Eyeglass EyeglassRepair, Repair Ring Sizing, Stone Setting, Diamonds, Jewelry Sales, Costume Jewelry Repair 14
April 2012
mo ha To th Is wi sh
lis It’s ate ow wi at for tio
If they say it Can’t be Done. Bring It Here.
Jewelry Repair Center
by pa wh th or pa frie tim bu I’m me fel
lon bia th Gr sp
HIDDEN GEMS
Local Businesses You May Have Missed
JETS Collision Repair Route 20, Nassau, NY
What does it mean to be a ‘car guy’? It refers to anyone who is so interested and excited by all things automotive that they are often consumed by their passion. While you may not recognize it, these folks are everywhere. Whether it’s waxing their restored 1960’s muscle car in the driveway, paying top dollar for tickets to a day at the races or parking an overpriced German coupe at the far end of the parking lot to avoid the inevitable door ding, ‘car guys’ are your friends, relative and neighbors. Some may laugh, deriding the time spent on an inanimate utilitarian object as a waste of time, but every ‘car guy’ would vehemently disagree. I know, because I’m a ‘car guy’ too. My 1987 300ZX, aka the ‘Silver Bullet’, marks me as a card-carrying member of this elite group. Whew...That felt good! Our Towne’s choice for this month’s ‘Hidden Gem’ just happens to involve a ‘car guy’! To learn a bit more about the collision repair business, I spent some time speaking with Jeff Pfeffer and touring his shop, Jets Collision Repair. As some of you know, Jets is a full-service auto and truck collision and repair center located on Route 20, just west of Nassau. It’s not necessary to have spent any time in a shop to immediately recognize Jets as a class operation and upon meeting the owner it’s easy to understand why. Pfeffer has been working with automobiles and trucks for over 30 years and got his start at 14 working at his dad’s shop. I asked him what he was hired for at such a young age and he jokingly said his entry-level position was as the shops ‘chief tool cleaner’. It would be an understatement to say that Pfeffer’s come a long way since being the shop ‘go-fer’. While a student at Columbia High School, Pfeffer completed a 2 year automotive program through BOCES and went on to hone his skills at ColumbiaGreene Community College. At 19, he exercised entrepreneurial spirit and decided he had what it took to run his own business. Since opening on a shoestring in 1984, Jets has expanded several times and Pfeffer currently has 5 employees, operates multiple paint booths as well as 2 computerized frame machines that bring everything back to ‘factory spec’ and is expanding Sunshine
Auto Rental, his in-house car rental service. He’s also interested in better serving the needs of local RV owners as well as opening a second shop in the area. While he has yet to settle on a location, he realizes opening a new shop would require hiring a full-time shop manager and he’s not quite ready to give up the day to day operations. With all these plans in the works, Pfeffer wants Jets Collision Repair to be a household name. In fact, you may have seen his recent commercials airing on YNN and Channel 10. As we talked about his company’s exposure into the future, he mentioned how competitive Jets Collision Repair owner, Jeff Pfeffer his industry is, and how he’s constantly trying to boost efficiency while he grows, especially when most of his business comes from collision repair for insurance companies. Pfeffer’s has some advice for consumers when it comes to choosing a collision repair shop. He simply says that you need to shop around. According to Pfeffer, few people exercise the choices they have in New York State because they tend to do what the insurance company tells them to do. Insurance companies often direct clients to a particular shop with a practice called ‘word tracking’, something I had never heard of before but actually dealt with unknowingly about 18 months ago when my wife had a minor accident. According to Pfeffer, state law allows you to bring your collision repair to any shop you want, regardless of which shop was recommended by your insurance company. In my case, I accepted the insurance company’s direction and brought my wife’s car to a particular repair shop. As Pfeffer said, ‘you can bring your repair to any shop that participates in good faith’. So, in the event the unthinkable happens, and you need the services of a reputable collision repair shop that offers a car rental service on the premises as well as a lifetime warranty on their work, then Jeff Pfeffer and Jets Collision Repair is your destination. As I drove away, I realized how enjoyable it was for this ‘car guy’ to meet another who channeled his ‘car guy’ energy into a successful career. The energy, sounds and sights of a well-organized shop brought back fond memories. And just think; now I know where I’ll bring the ‘Silver Bullet’ when she needs a facelift. For more information about Jets Collision Repair & Sunshine Auto Rental please call them at 766-4004 *See page 20 for For Darren Rosenbaum’s “Car Guy” bio....
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
15
Experienced Local Accountant Offers Tax Tips & Tricks by Bridget Chandler of Simply Accounting
Last year was one of great uncertainty when it came to taxes. Although Congress had known for years that numerous tax laws were expiring at the end of 2010, representatives and senators kept putting off key action. Regardless, each year there are plenty of tax moves you can make to help reduce what you owe in taxes. These 10 tax tips can do just that:
6LPSO\ 7D[HV $FFRXQWLQJ 7UDLQLQJ
$FFRXQWLQJ %RRNNHHSLQJ 6HUYLFHV //&
Senior Saturdays $IIRUGDEOH 3URIHVVLRQDO 7D[
Also Providing 1) Convert to a Roth IRA Home-based Roth IRAs are popular because when the money is withdrawn tax services in retirement, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no tax due. These accounts are enjoyDiscounts for Seniors for the home ing a new surge of popularity now that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no longer an Every week in February & March bound and income limit on who can convert a traditional IRA to a Roth *please call to inquire account. disabled 6HQLRU 6WXGHQW 'LVFRXQWV $YDLODEOH 2) Buy a house The first-time homebuyer credit is no longer available, but owning a home still offers many good tax breaks. .Other home-related costs, such as property taxes and points paid to get a lower home loan interest rate, also are deductible, as is interest on home equity loans up to $100,000. 3) Medical expenses LQIR#VLPSO\DFFRXQWLQJ ERRNNHHSLQJVYFV FRP Medical costs also could become tax savings if you have ::: 6,03/<$&&2817,1* %22..((3,1*69&6 &20 enough of them to deduct. To claim them as itemized deductions, you must have incurred medical costs of more than 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. Did you know that you &ROXPELD 7XUQSLNH 32 %R[ (DVW *UHHQEXVK 1< can deduct medical mileage? 4) Create a bunching strategy you can use payroll deductions calculators or the IRSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interacStart planning your tax-deductible expenditures early in tive allowances calculator the tax year, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be sure that you will clear deduction 8) Evaluate educational accounts hurdles. This is known as creating a bunching strategy, since it College costs increase every year, but tax-advantaged savings usually entails moving, or bunching, expenditures into one tax accounts can help. The key is determining which plan best year so you can take advantage of itemizing them. suits your needs. Every state offers at least one 529 plan, a sav5) Give to charity ings account set up for a child to help pay for future college You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to meet a threshold to deduct your charitable costs. Your contributions to a 529 plan are not tax deductible, donations. As long as you give to an IRS-qualified organizabut the earnings are not taxed. When you take out funds to tion within the tax year, you usually can claim as an itemized pay for eligible expenses, the distribution also is tax-free. deduction the full amount that you give. 9) Prevent identity theft 6) Avoid common mistakes Identity theft can cost you time and money but most imporIf you are not current or donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand tax laws and rules tantly your credit rating. Make sure that you use a reputable donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prepare your own return. Common mistakes can cost tax preparer to handle your tax responsibilities. Ask how they you. Whether you over or under state your information, both handle your tax and personal information. What is their privacan come with some heavy price tags. Remember, retail shelf cy policy? How do they retain your records? Are they a legitisoftware programs should be used carefully. Although they mate tax preparer? The Internal Revenue Service mandates are priced reasonably, as it may seem, an incorrect tax return registration of all tax preparers, ask for their identification. IRS can cost you much more then what your saving from having a authorized e-file providers are listed on the IRS website; check professional prepare your return(s). to see if your preparer is on that list. 7) Adjust your withholding 10) Timeliness When it comes to payroll withholding, you want to be GoldiFile your tax returns on time. If you owe taxes pay on time or locks and get it â&#x20AC;&#x153;just right.â&#x20AC;? If you over withhold federal taxes, set up an installment agreement(s). Installment agreements youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get a big refund. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nice once a year, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve have costs associated with them but will help keep you in sacrificed control of your dollars for the other 364 days. If you compliance if you have no other means of making payment. under withhold, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll end up owing the taxes at filing time. Use this alternative as a last resource. Owing a little isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too bad, but a big tax bill could cause you to face penalties for not paying enough throughout the year. Bridget Chandler of Simply Accounting has over 25 years of exItâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to change your withholding. Just give your payroll perience. If you have any questions please feel free to contact office a new W-4. And to make sure that form will get your her at taxhelp@simplyaccounting-bookkeepingsvcs.com. withholding as close as possible to your eventual tax liability,
$FFRXQWLQJ DQG %RRNNHHSLQJ 6HUYLFHV
!
G H
16
April 2012
Jeffers Law Firm Buying or Selling Your Home? Call for a price quote
g d
Handling wills & estates since 1988
Personal attention to all documents
e
Reasonable fees No extra charge for house calls 10 Chaundry Lane Averill Park, NY vjeffers@nycap.rr.com
0
<
518-674-0000 www.jefferslawfirm.com
-
un kend f e h t e wee h Join on t
gs v-
e,
n o i g n Le
a c i r e Am
Post
ay Frid
1231
Nite
k0 aem o a r Ka m - 12:0 blic! y
Ever
ey ai-
p Pu 8:00 to the n Ope
RS ck
r
exct
quets
or Ban r Hall f
rve o25u0 persons e s e R ckley up to k and
oo dings for Ginny Bro To BW ed tessâ&#x20AC;? and ur â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hos call o
7.4278 2 5 . 8 1 5
s
Menu
ost.
t the P
ble a availa
200 Columbia Turnpike,
East Greenbush, NY
518.462.7006 Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
17
SLCA summer
YOUTH Programs
Sand Lake Center for the Arts Sand Lake Center for the Arts
Summer Youth Programs are coming! Classes begin July 9 through August 5. Spaces are limited - sign up now! YOUTH THEATRE PLAYERS present . . . TO ART AND BEYOND Written and Directed by Sue Frost and Val Kavanaugh ~July 9 - August 5 ~ Grades 3-8 ~ Tuition: $75 for 4 week session Rehearsals: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 6:30-8:00pm Performance Dates: August 4 at 7pm & August 5 at 2:30pm.
CHARACTER CREATION & COMICS with Phil Singer. July 16 - 20 Monday-Friday, 12:30 - 1:30pm . Grades 2-4 . Tuition: $55/Week Take home your creations. Students will begin by creating characters and developing story concepts. We will use rough sketches and humorous story telling to flesh out the characters’ personalities. Students will develop single panel gag cartoons as well as 3 to 4 panel daily comic strips in black and white line art.
Come draw and show your creativity! A still life drawing class is something for everyone to try! In this class you will look at some of the greatest still life artists of all time and learn fun, easy techniques for making your own drawings look more realistic and come to life. Everyone has his/her own unique style of drawing and way of viewing. POP BLOCK ART! with Dana Werntz July 23 - 27 Monday-Friday, 2:30 - 3:30pm Grades 9-12 . Tuition: $55/Week Be cool, be creative! Clothing logos, band posters, magazine ads…everywhere you look you can find bold, colorful printed images from the world of Pop Art. In this class you will learn one of the many printmaking techniques used to make these graphic designs. Each student will create a linoleum block of his/her own design. You will experiment with different colors and make multiple prints of your block.
PLAY IT AGAIN, SAM with Stephanie Manuel. July 16 - 20. Monday-Friday, 1:30 - 2:30pm . Grades 4-6 . Tuition: $55/Week July 20 Performance. This is a recorder class for those who enjoy playing! We will get right down to business, learning and even CREATIVE MOVEMENT with Jackie Abbott composing our own songs to perform in a July 9 - 13. Monday-Friday, 9 - 10:30am concert for friends on Friday. We will explore Grades K-2 . Tuition: $60/Week different types of recorders and their history. July 13 Celebration. This class is an enjoyable Together we will make some beautiful music! way for young children to develop physical Previous recorder experience is helpful–let’s skills, channel their energy, stimulate their play! Use your recorder or buy one for $5. ARTSMART with Pat Smart imagination and promote creativity. July 30 – August 3 WE GOT THE BEAT with Stephanie Manuel Monday-Friday, 9 - 11am IMPROVISATION FOR THE THEATER with July 16 - 20. Monday-Friday, 2:30 - 3:30pm Grades 4-7 Tuition: $65/Week Barbara Smith. July 9 - 13. Monday-Friday, Grades 1-3 Take home your creations. Students will use 11:30am - 1:30pm . Grades 8-12 . Tuition: Tuition: $55/Week their creative imagination and explore the $65/Week . July 13 Performance. Loosen This class will keep you on your toes! world of fabric art with batik and learn the your tongue; break your bubble; firm up your This is the class for those younger friends magic of sun printing and printmaking activispontaneity muscles. who need to feel the rhythm! We will play ties such as monoprinting and etching. Small with bean bags, rhythm sticks, scarves, shak- groups provide valuable individual attention FILMMAKING FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN ers and other fun instruments, while movin’ and there is always time to pursue individual with Jim Powers. July 16 - 27Monday-Friday, and groovin’ to the music! Through the music interests. 9am - 12pm we will develop coordination, listening, and Grades 8-12 . Tuition: $135/2 Weeks July 27 direction following. CREATIVE CLAY with Jami Gras Film Screening. An all-inclusive, start to finJuly 30 – August 3 ish, hands on film making course. By the end SWEET CERAMICS with Dana Werntz Monday-Friday, 1 - 3pm of the class each member will have worked July 23 - 27 Grades 4-7 on every aspect of the filmmaking process. Monday-Friday, 12:30 - 1:30pm Tuition: $70/Week receive a DVD to take home. Grades 1-3 Take home your creations Tuition: $55/Week Students will be encouraged to experiment GRAPHIC NOVEL ILLUSTRATION with Phil Take home a dessert that will last forever and use their imagination to have fun with a Singer Come and learn about two very fun topics - variety of activities which include: Pinch Pots, July 16 - 20 . Monday-Friday, 10am - 12pm. art and dessert! In this course students will Masks, Carving, and Hand Building. Students Grades 6-9 . Tuition: $65/Week Take home learn about artists who used food (mostly work will be kiln fired throughout the week & your creation. We will begin by developing desserts) as their inspiration for making art. the last work will be available for pick up one a story which we will build into a graphic Then they will make a favorite treat of their week after the last class. novel. Each student will rough out 2 pages: own out of clay! They will learn how to build characters and layout. Then, collaboratively, and assemble basic shapes with the clay and Visit www.slca-ctp.org/SummerYouth.htm for we will make decisions about characters more detailsand to print out a registration form or then decorate them. call 674-2007. and layout of the graphic novel as a whole. Scholarships are available. During the final 2 classes students will layout, LET’S DRAW FROM LIFE! with Dana Werntz The Sand Lake Center for the Arts pencil, and finally ink 2 pages of the graphic July 23 - 27 2880 NY 43, Averill Park, NY short story (including lettering, page design, Monday-Friday, 1:30 - 2:30pm ½ mile east of the blinking light in Averill Park. and finished art). Grades 4-7 Tuition: $55/Week 518-674-2007 18
April 2012
k-
Dirty Dogs Done Dirt Cheap!!
Shampoodle!
g.
U-Do-It just $13 Just bring your dirty dog everything else is supplied!
We Will Do It!
We will wash your dog in an hour or less.
m ple
(Appt. necc. we only do a pup at a time)
GROOMING
For pups that need a trim or full cut Your Pup Will Look Amazing!
e
Appt. necc.- Cert.Groomer does 1 dog at a time only-
No kennels - No Stress! Ready in less than 2 hours Delmar has added a NEW Grooming Salon!
viall on al
t a ts, ts k& ne
r or
.
Leave the mess with us!
We’ve had a fun day at Doggie Day Camp!!!
Training Facility
Have your pup as tired as you are after a long day at work but they’ll be tired after having fun all day! Affordable * Supervised Play* No Kennels. Convenient just off exit 8 of the Northway. Lots of room to play - walks outside. Full or 1/2 days Do it Yourself & We Do It Hours Are...
Training & Classes for Every Pup Young or old, experienced or not Whether you want to train your pup or just have fun... our trainers can help!
Call Shampoodle at 371-6600
Mon-Fri 11-7, (Delmar open 10am weekdays) Sat 9-5, Sun 10 - 5 (Grooming starts at 8 am)
266 Delaware Ave Delmar 368-3260 behind Finishing Touch – next to CVS
Also Plaza 8 1536 Crescent Rd. Clifton Park 371-6600 just off exit 8 of the Northway in the plaza with CVS
www.shampoodledogwash.com
Shampoodle!
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
19
Community Calendar ~ April 2012 Sunday, April 01, 2012 (2:00 p.m. - N/A) Rensselaer High School musical production “Once on This Island” will be in the school’s auditorium, 25 Van Rensselaer Drive. Tickets are $7.00. Contact: For additional information, please call 436-8561 Ext. 3104.
call 518-279-1155.Web Site:www.nysparks. Call 1-800-556-6273 with your choice of com seating time and number of people.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012 (5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.) Rabbies Clinic.-Pittstown Town Hall, 123 Tomhannock Road Valley Falls from 5-7PM.-Tuesday. Residents with questions regarding the rabies prevention program Sunday, April 01, 2012 (10:45 a.m. - N/A) should contact the Rensselaer County The 2nd. Annual Bowl-a-thon Fundrais- Department of Health at 270-2655. er in remembrance of Jason R. Vandeputte ‘Bucky” will be held at the Uncle Sam Wednesday, April 11, 2012 (7:00 p.m. Lanes in Troy. The cost is $20 and includes Grafton Lakes State Park, Parks Office. bowling, shoes and pizza after bowling. Help plan Spring trail work days. The Art Whitney at 283-5043 or 423-3598. advisory committee includes equestrians, snowmobilers, hikers, mountain bikers Friday, April 06, 2012 (4:30 p.m. - 7:30 and other park users. Add your energy to p.m.) The East Greenbush Fire Company the group!please call 518-279-1155. will serve fish and chips dinners on Web Site: www.nysparks.com March 16, 23, 30 and April 6 at the Philips Road Station, 68 Philips Road. call 272Friday, April 13, 2012 (9:30 a.m. - 4:00 2676. p.m.) April 14 9:30 to 11:30 The Spring Rummage sale will be held Saturday, April 07, 2012 (9:00 a.m. - 1:00 on April 13 and April 14 at the Pittstown p.m.) Troy Winter Farmers Market-Uncle United Methodist Church Hall, Route 7. Sam Atrium. 50+ local vendors and savor Clothing, jewelry, books, toys and housethe tastes, sights and sounds at their hold goods with a $2 bag sale. Baked indoor market -- stay for lunch and a walk goods and food items for sale both days. around historic downtown Troy and have Contact: For additional information, please a great time every Saturday 518.708.4216. call 663-5522. Tuesday, April 10, 2012 (1:00 p.m. - N/A) Grafton Lakes State Park. Meets at Park Office. Join them for trout related information and activities. Learn about the trout life cycle and help them release the trout they have been raising since October into Second Pond! $2/person or $5/family. Registration required. Contact: For additional information, please
Saturday, April 14, 2012 (9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) Farmers Market call 518.708.4216.
10AM April 14th at The Van Rensselaer Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will meet at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 146 First Street, Troy. There will be an American Indian program and all are welcome. For more information about the DAR and eligibility, contact Regent Carol Haid at karolinaghaid@hotmail. comg
COUNTRY FOLK ART CRAFT FAIR Hudson Valley Community College
April 20-21-22
McDonough Sports Complex www.countryfolkart.com
Friends of Oakwood Cemetery will host their annual Daffodil Brunch. This year they will have increased the numTickets are still just $15pp. Contact: Reservations are required and are limited to 100 per seating. They go fast!
ARE YOU A CAR GUY?
by Darren Rosenbaum I’ve had a passion for cars since I was a kid. Was it my uncle’s stories of the glory day’s street racing with his 1964 Pontiac GTO? Or watching the flames from the Batmobile’s exhaust in after school re-runs? More than likely though, it had to do with my father taking me to see Paul Newman race his ‘Datsun’ at Limerock one summer day back in the 1970’s. The noise, smells, and sounds all helped begin a remarkable transformation. Some of the highlights since that fateful afternoon; Listening to Rush’s Red Barchetta a thousand times during my early teens; Cosmetically altering a hand-me-down 1978 Buick Regal into a Grand National look-alike during college; Buying a beat up black Hyosung Cruise (a license-built Korean Suzuki) when the Our Towne Team taught in South Korea, stripping it down and repainting it a metallic Cherry Red; And then, an early ‘mid-life crisis’ where I turned a beat-up 1987 300ZX two-seater into my daily driver for much of the early ought’s. There’s no denying being a ‘car guy’ is in my blood and the passion simmers. Lately however, with four kids taking priority, the impracticality of driving a two-seater means that the 300ZX has been off the road for a few years. However, when I’ve finally stopped being the lacrosse dad, the ‘Silver Bullet’ will be back on the road! 20
April 2012
We N/ Ch de Wo se ma Th tu 6:0 Aw th ab co Ja Le ch Bo to Me pa Co ple
Fri p.m nin NY offi str ev loc of th Ni ev th ev
w
i-
m on ail.
my
w-
Wednesday, April 25, 2012 (7:30 a.m. N/A) Fundraiser to Benefit Catholic Charities CoNSERNS-U Programs - Bus departs promptly from Yankee Trails World Travel, 569 Third Ave. Ext. Rensselaer at 7:30 a.m. for a 2:00 p.m. performance of LEAP OF FAITH at the St. James Theatre, 246 West 44th St. New York. Return bus will pick up from Bryant Park at 6:00 p.m. Leap of Faith - Four-time Tony Award® nominee Raúl Esparza headlines this inspired new musical from a remarkable team: eight-time Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken; bookwriters Janus Cercone and Tony®-winner Warren Leight (Side Man); lyricist Glenn Slater; choreographer Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys); and Christopher Ashley, director of the Tony®-winning Best Musical Memphis. Reservations accepted with payment only. Contact: For additional information, please call 463-8571 for information. Friday, April 27, 2012 (5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.) TROY NIGHT OUT– Enjoy an evening of art and culture in Downtown Troy NY on the last Friday of every month, officially known as Troy Night Out. The streets are busier than usual for this event as the evening draws over 1,000 locals and visitors alike to get a true taste of the arts and take advantage of everything Troy, New York has to offer! Troy Night Out runs from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm every month on the last Friday. Between these hours, guests can enjoy over 30 art events, 15 music venues, and 20+ fine
Discovery Place Learning Center
restaurants in addition to superb shopping at unique boutiques of all varieties. But the fun doesn’t stop at 9:00 pm! Many downtown eateries and bars offer a place for people to gather and continue to enjoy the night. There are a variety of venues who participate in Troy Night Out each month. Web Site: www.troynightout.org Friday, April 27, 2012 (6:30 a.m. - N/A) The trip is co-sponsored by The Pruyn House and the Society of Architectural Historians, Turpin Bannister Chapter. RCHS announces spring Bus Trip to New York City. TROY, N.Y. – Join the Rensselaer County Historical Society (RCHS) on a bus trip to New York City on Friday, April 27, 2012. Tickets are $85 per person, $75 for members. To make reservations, call 518-272-7232 x12. Web Site: www. rchsonline.org Friday, April 27, 2012 (4:30 p.m. - N/A) Rensselaer County Historical Society. Hidden History - Mt. Ida Cemetery & the Poestenkill Gorge- Join Kathryn Sheehan, Rensselaer County Historian, as they tour Mt. Ida Cemetery, which features some of the oldest headstones in the city of Troy. They will then tour the Poestenkill Gorge a favorite destination for picnickers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts for decades. The waters of the Poestenkill collect in Dyken Pond, then make a dash for the Hudson River below. The Mt. Ida falls drop roughly 85’ into a gorge
of crumbly black shale, make a right angle turn, dropping a further 75’ into a massive pool. This source of water power fueled several industries along the Poestenkill’s banks in the 19th century. $12 Members / $15 non-members. Contact: For additional information, please call 518-272-7232 x12.Web Site: www. rchsonline.org Saturday, April 28, 2012 (9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) Farmers Market - Troy Winter Farmers Market-Uncle Sam Atrium 50+ local vendors and savor the tastes, sights and sounds at their indoor market -- stay for lunch and a walk around historic downtown Troy and have a great time every Saturday (no matter what the weather outside)
WHO ~ WHAT ~ WHERE ~ WHEN????? FAMILY FUN.....THINGS TO DO....WAYS TO ENJOY LIFE
www.ourtownerensco.com APRIL 27th PARENT’s NIGHT OUT KJ’s Gymnastics contact kjsgymnastics@msn.com
Rocky’s Music Studio
OPEN HOUSE April 21st 10:30am to 11:30am 749 Columbia Turnpike East Greenbush
April 19 - Ukelele Group Class April 21 - Guitar Maintenance Class April 28 - Drum Clinic w/ Scott Kettner
479-1100 www.discoveryplaceny.com
429-6380
www.rockysmusicstudio.com
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
21
April Happenings
East GreenbushC GreenbushCommunity ommunity Library www.eastgreenbushlibrary.org Riverway Storytelling Festival Once Upon a Time and a Little Bit More: Stories for Families. Saturday, April 21 at 11:00 am Join us for a free family performance featuring David Novak and Valerie Tutson. While this is a free performance, the seating is limited and tickets are required. Please visit the Children’s Desk beginning April 2 to pick up your tickets.
subjects of suicide, love, and the meaning of life. This play won the Dramatists Guild’s Hull-Warriner Award, four Tony nominations, the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, and the Pulitzer Prize in 1983. DIRECTED BY SHAWN MORGAN
Family Movie Night Thursday, April 12 @ 7:00 pm Watch The Muppets and enjoy some popcorn! Rated PG, 103 minutes. Registration required.
The Sky Is Falling! Friday, April 13 @ 2:00 pm Zumba. Tuesdays, April 17, 7:00 What if Chicken Little was right p.m. Zumba is a hip-swinging, after all? Find out in this new booty-shaking fun way to get one act play by Barbara Leavell a great workout! All levels are Smith that raises awareness through laughter and fun welcome. Space is limited to The Walls of Belfast. Sunday, 35. about the problems and opApril 1 at 2:00 p.m. “The Walls portunities of climate change. of Belfast” is a multi-media History as Reflected in Edito- Ages 8 and up, registration presentation by Dr. Jack Conrequired. rial Cartoons of the USA way on research conducted Sunday, April 22 at 2:00 p.m. in Belfast , Northern Ireland Stan Burdick, himself a cartoon- Library LEGO Club during the peace process years ist, will present a humorous Tuesday, April 10 at 11:00 am of 1998-2000. This presentation talk using historical cartoons to (Restricted registration begins includes a look at the murals, illustrate memorable events in April 2) posters, and graffiti placed on American history. He’ll answer Ages 5 and up. Calling all LEGO the walls of Belfast by militant questions like, “Who was the enthusiasts! Bring your imagipolitical movements seeking to first noted political cartoonist,” nation and use the library’s explain the violence in North- and “Was the Gibson Girl a real LEGO collection to build some ern Ireland . cool creations. woman”? Greenbush Garden Club sponsors Arthritis and Gardening Tuesday, April 3, 6:00 p.m. Claire Carrozza, OTR, CHT (occupational & certified hand therapist) from Seton Health will provide advice to make outdoor springtime activities more enjoy-able, safer and less painful. Stop ADD/ADHD/OCD and Hyperactivity: A Drugless Approach to Optimal Health Monday, April 9, 7:00 p.m. Join Dr. Amy Burelson of East Greenbush Chiropractic to learn how moderated exercise and key nutrition points can reduce, or even eliminate, ADD, ADHD, OCD, and hyperactivity. Mindfulness Meditation. Mondays: April 9, 7:00 p.m. Alexandra Sullivan, mind-body practitioner, teaches. Bring a cushion or blanket if you prefer to sit on the floor. Spotlight Players Staged Play Reading Series:‘Night Mother by Marsha NormanSunday, April 15, 2:00 p.m. ‘Night, Mother addresses the
22
April 2012
Free Wednesday Night Movie: Children’s Book Groups APRIL 25 @ 6:30 pm – Iron Mother/Daughter Book Lady Group @ 7:00 pm Girls and their mothers (or Children’s Programs: APRIL SCHOOL BREAK PRO- grandmas, aunts, etc.) are invited. 5th graders and up GRAMS Monday, April 2: Fablehaven by Registration for all April Brandon Mull. Break programs begins on April 2! Cookies N’ Books @ 4:15 pm Schenectady Theater for 2nd & 3rd graders. Beginning Children presents Androcles chapter book readers are and the Lion, to enjoy book discusa musical based on the fable invited sions and crafts. Tuesday, April by Aesop 3:Choose one of the A to Z Monday, April 9 @ 2:00 pm mysteries by Ron Roy for April. Ages 4 and up, registration required. Saturday Kids Book Club - Saturday, April 14 @ 1:00 Creative Writing Workshop pm There will also be snacks Tuesday, April 10 @ 2:00 pm and activities. For 4–6 graders. Join us for a creative writing April’s book will be Spaceheadz workshop led by teacher-intraining Katy Halpin. All levels by Jon Scieszka of experience are welcome. Registration begins March 21st. Open to All Teens entering For Grades 5+. Space is limited! Grades 2-12 April is National Poetry Month Fun with the Lorax @ the Stop by the Teen Area on or LibraryWednesday, April 11 @ 10:00 am Watch the classic after April 4 to check out all the entries we received for our 1972 animaed Lorax movie, make some fun Dr. Seuss crafts 2012 Teen Poetry Contest! and learn what YOU can do to TAG (Teen Advisory Group) & Jr. help the environment. Ages 4 Friends @ 3:30 pm Wednesday, April 4: Discuss and up, registration required.
10 Community Way East Greenbush 477-7476 and plan teen programming, collection development, and volunteer opportunities. Teen area decorations and policies will also be discussed. Plus, you get FOOD as payment when the meeting is over. Teen Cafe @ 2:30 pm Friday, April 20 Hang out, play video games, and use the laptops in a room reserved just for teens! BYOB Book Club Wednesday @ 3:30 pm Join us in the Teen Area for cookies and a book discussion. Bring Your Own Book – or at least be ready to talk about it! April 25: THEME: Poetry & “Novels in Verse” FREE COMPUTER CLASSES Restricted Registration begins two weeks before each computer class. Open registration begins one week before each class. APRIL Ask the Expert. Thursdays: 4:00 6:00 p.m. April 5, May 10 and June 7 Overdrive Open Clinic Tuesdays: 6:30-8:30 p.m. April 10, May 8 and June 12 Drop in with your device and/or laptop for individual help downloading audiobooks & ebooks from the library. Introduction to PowerPoint Saturday, April 21 10:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Introduction to PCs - Part 1 and 2 Monday, April 23 & Wednesday, April 25, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The Library Board of Trustees Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 17 at 7:30 pm The Friends of the East Greenbush Community
Library Meet at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, April 17 at the library. The Library will be closed on Sunday, April 8 for Easter. The Library is holding a Canned Food Drive starting in April through June....foods such as peanut butter and jelly, macaroni and
cheese etc. Please donate any of these items or others for this good cause.
h T f t t C c it r a m a t o
Book Review by Lynn Catelotti Miss Timmins’ School for Girls By Nayana Currimbhoy
ou
m
A murder at a British boarding school in the hills of western India launches a young teacher on the journey of a lifetime In 1974, three weeks before her twenty-first birthday, Charulata Apte arrives at Miss Timmins' School for Girls in Panchgani. Shy, sheltered, and running from a scandal that disgraced her Brahmin family, Charu finds herself teaching Shakespeare to rich Indian girls in a boarding school still run like an outpost of the British Empire. In this small, foreign universe, Charu is drawn to the charismatic teacher Moira Prince, who introduces her to pot-smoking hippies, rock 'n' roll, and freedoms she never knew existed. Then one monsoon night, a body is found at the bottom of a cliff, and the ordered worlds of school and town are thrown into chaos. When Charu is implicated in the murder--a case three intrepid schoolgirls take it upon themselves to solve--Charu's real education begins. A love story and a murder mystery, Miss Timmins' School for Girls is, ultimately, a coming-of-age tale set against the turbulence of the 1970s as it played 330 Columbia Tpke. 479-BOOK (2665) out in one small corner of India.
Good Buy Books
n.
ov-
wo ss. ek
New and Gently Read Books
s: d e
rm.
2
It’s That Time of Year!!! F AD OITFH TH2I0S12
0/ G W 4/3 10% IN gh
M rou OO d th GR vali
FREE DE-SHEDDING (For grooming or “We will Wash” appts)
~ Personal 1 on 1 grooming ~ No kennels / no cage drying ~ Pups stay only as long as it takes to be groomed
, of
y
y. -
a-
nd y is
Do It Yourself & We Do It Hours Are....
Shampoodle Mon-Fri 10-7 *Delmar (Clifton Park open at 11am) Sat 9-5, Sun 10 - 5 (Grooming starts at 8 am)
266 Delaware Ave Delmar 368-3260 behind Finishing Touch – next to CVS
Also Plaza 8 1536 Crescent Rd. Clifton Park 371-6600
www.shampoodledogwash.com
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
23
A MESSAGE FROM THE VET ~ Dr. David Stone, DVM Good Death
This article is about euthanasia and it’s not particularly warm or fuzzy. My conscience tells me I should not reveal the “business” of euthanasia—the behind the doors stuff that allows me to fully immerse myself with you in your most earnest time of need and despair (to hug your neck and wipe your tears) and 2 minutes later be in a room with a food allergy patient discussing diet plans. The way I maneuver to get you in, taken care of, and out as smooth and efficiently as possible seems less about heart and more about business. Look carefully though and you can see that most of the efficiencies are bent in favor of making euthanasia slightly less awful. Be warned, this article may make you less happy than you currently are. Do you have limits? An amount of times you’re willing to do something crappy before you’ve had enough. That is until tomorrow when it goes back to zero and you start working toward your limit again. I have that limit about euthanasia. Currently, mine is four in a day. I hit my limit about a dozen times a year. Usually I euthanize 1-2 pets per week. Once I’m into my fourth euthanasia of the day I’m pretty much wiped out. It is my loss too. I’m the one pulling the trigger. You get guilt and I get blame. Time and again someone says “I’d have been a veterinarian except for euthanasia—I could never do it.” For some reason I can. What’s that about? There are a few ways this article can go—we can focus on the saddest and the worst, or swing it around to the most inspirational and heart-warming. We can discuss animal rights or the arrogance which underlies the whole thing. In some cases euthanasia represents my horrible failure to fix something. Sometimes it’s your horrible failure to recognize a problem in the first place. Sometimes it’s both. Sometimes neither. I want to take a moment to explain the actual actions taken during these unsettling visits. General euthanasia procedure: Immediately upon arrival pet and owner are taken to room by reception. They explain the paperwork and decisions are made: to bury or cremate and if individual cremation. The papers are signed and payment is received (at our hospital you pay from the room beforehand so you don’t get stuck standing at the counter afterward— and we’re not sending a bill to rub a bunch of salt into your wounds a week after you finally stopped crying). Meanwhile, I review the paperwork and get the sedative injection ready. I come in and I give the sedative injection. I leave you alone in the room with your pet. The sedative usually takes 10 minutes. I come back with an assistant and I administer the fatal drug into a leg vein. Usually your pet takes their last breath before I finish injecting and often the heart has stopped before I can check 24
April 2012
with my stethoscope. Sometimes I listen as the heartbeat gently fades away. When satisfied, I pronounce them dead. If you are taking the body with you to bury, I will wrap them and carry them to your car. If we are cremating, I will wrap them, verify the paperwork, and place them in a cadaver bag which I will then place into a large freezer next to my isolation ward. Once a week Gregg and Melissa from Adirondack Pet Care will pick up each of the bodies, catalogue them, and transport them to their facility off Best Rd. for cremation. They are our neighbors. At the same time they pick up our bodies, they drop off the urns from the previous week’s private/individual cremations. We keep these urns until you call to pick them up. That’s it. That’s about all that happens. That’s the academic aspect. Insert patient. Insert owner. For some it’ a quick glance back over the shoulder, for others it’s an all-day affair with extended family pouring out of the room. Usually it’s just a lady, by herself. Sometimes it’s a guy, like me—particularly upsetting. I’m sorry for your loss. I’m sorry for your heartache. Now I’ve got to go into another appointment--I see that we have a female dog with a presumptive UTI…I wonder if we got a urine sample?— did you see? I’m already on to the “next thing” and you’re not even out of the parking lot. Does that bother you? I think it’s called compartmentalization or self-preservation. Or I have no soul. Questions: How will I know when it’s time? You won’t get it right. There isn’t a right. I’ve heard it said that it’s better to do it a day too soon than a day too late. And that no one ever looks back and says “I did that too soon” yet people frequently say “I waited too long.” Most importantly, you all need to be on the same page. Don’t work against each other. You can just plan on getting it wrong and dealing with the guilt of that too. Do pets feel pain when everything stops? No. It’s considered humane to euthanize without a premed sedative, but I just feel better when they are under anesthesia already. I don’t care how much extra it costs—I’m not paying for it. Not all vets feel this way and if you care you should check on their practices. Am I supposed to stay with my pet or go? No right answer—most people stay at least for the sedative part. Many people stay for the whole thing. Some just need to leave. Truth is, once the sedative hits, your pet is not aware of you or themselves or much of anything. They are disassociated. They are anesthetized. Do they eliminate their bowels and urinate and vomit when they die? Often urine, sometimes stool, no real vomiting. Am I supposed to cry? Lots of people do. Some people don’t. We’ve got tissues and shoulders.
Am I supposed to scream? Please don’t. Some people do. Keep in mind that usually our hospital has other clients around and they don’t need to have their day ruined or be deeply troubled by your personal/public grief. They already feel horrible for you if they saw you coming in the door. Chances are they’ve been there and done that. I had a client leave the building during an exam because someone was wailing and cursing God from down the hallway and it was upsetting her children. I quieted down the grieving mom and finished my exam with on the lawn. Is that really Fluffy in the urn? If you’re entrusting your pet to me, don’t ask that question-even if it’s on your mind. How will I answer? Of course Melissa and Gregg are doing their job—they proudly serve our community. And of course they are fully licensed and certified and get inspections and are up to par in every way. Yes, it’s Fluffy in the urn! Why won’t his eyes close? When an animal is euthanized their eyes don’t close. Keep in mind that they don’t close their eyes during anesthesia either. We lubricate their eyes during surgery for this reason. Humans are born with their eyes open and die with them closed. For dogs and cats it’s the opposite. Well, this fact is troubling for some people. By gently pressing on the eyelids you can get them to about half closed. If you really had to close them, the quick-fix is a drop of tissue glue on the lids. I’ve only needed to do that once or twice and it worked. What’s the strangest thing that ever happened to you with euthanasia? I euthanized a dog and the owner called the next day to say that he had changed his mind. I once euthanized a suffering panther. I once euthanized two pets at the exact same time. I once did an at-home euthanasia and the sedated cat jumped out of the window and ran into the woods—never to be seen again. I once euthanized 5 pets in one horrible day. I once sedated a dog for euthanasia—ran to surgery to rescue a puppy stuck in her mother’s birth canal—then went back to finish the euthanasia. I told the owners where I’d been and we silently decided their dog had just been reborn. I once euthanized a dog and he turned to me and seemed to say, “It’s alright. I forgive your ignorance.” I hope it’s okay that I can be with you at your most vulnerable moments and still have a million professional and personal responsibilities. I won’t trouble you with them. I won’t hurry you. Please don’t be offended if that deeply emotional time for you is only passingly
emotional for me. And contained. I’ve lost one or two beloved pets over the years and know the hurt well. Continue to hurt well. David Stone, DVM
O
5
L
o P th 4 a
me s-
Pet Pages Training - Puppy Classes - Boarding - Day Care - Grooming
n
d
Dr. David Stone
st-
283-2700
d
Corner intersection of Rt. 4 & 43 Bloomingrove Rd. Exit 8 off I-90
y
ang h or is g f
ve
ed
a s e of to e
k to e d nd ht.
ls.
ost
rt
THE PET GALLERY Let Us Pamper Your Pet Grooming Boarding Daycare
WE WILL TREAT YOUR PET LIKE FAMILY New $5 OFF Grooming or Clients First Day of Day Care FREE Only
On Rt 9 Columbia/Rensselaer County Border (just south of exit 12, I-90)
BLC Pet Care When you want your Pets to have TLC come to BLC
Pet Sitting Dog Walking
fully insured references available
Brenda Cole ~ Owner Own sweetbrendalee@verizon.net 518-283-2986 518-366-5750
518 732-0200 ~ www.rensselaerpetgallery.com
LYNX Purrfect Kitty
Lynx is an adorable 1+ year old male black & white tuxedo kitty. He was with an increasing number of
kitties that someone could no longer care for & was not getting the attention he sought. The caretaker contacted our rescue group for help and we subsequently got sweet little Lynx. Lynx is a young, playful kitty that got his necessary vet care and is now looking for a “forever home”. He gets along well with people and other cats and loves to play & be petted. He’s especially fond of chasing the red laser light along the floor. He promises to keep you entertained with his antics and catnip toys and would love for a chance in a good home! Please consider adopting this gentle kitty! As with all Purrfect Companion kitties, Lynx is up-to-date on routine shots, house trained and neutered or spayed. For more information on Lynx, please contact one of the following Purrfect Companions’ representatives: Maryann at 331-2221 or at kitties.purrfectcompanions@yahoo.com. Purrfect Companions is a non-profit, all volunteer rescue organization. We are always looking for good volunteers to help with the kitties or assist at our adoption clinics. If you’d like to donate a little time to these worthy animals, please give us a call at 463-8709. Our adoption clinics are held 12:30-4:00 most Saturdays and Sundays at Petco, Northway Mall, Albany NY. Stop by and see some of our other kitties! We may have one that is just “PURRFECT” for you!
Please Adopt Me!
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
25
2012 Local Summer Camp & Enrichment HUB
KJ
’s
Gymnastics, inc
KJS GYMNASTICS Not Just a gymnastics camp but a whole lot more! Gymanstics Summer Camps with a different theme each week 6/27-8/24. Improve your gymnastics skills during 3 Gymnastics Weeks, combine gymnastics with survival skills during Survivor Week, Learn the unicycle, tumbling and more during Circus week, enjoy inflatables-mania during Party Week, compete in the Olympics, or explore other cultures during World Adventure week!
MAD SCIENCE Moving With Science (Ages 5-12) Explore the “creative” side of science! View the world through a camera obscura you made yourself! See for yourself what an owl eats! Work with your fellow Junior Engineers to build bridges, domes, cubes, and pyramids! Assemble and control fun machines like pulleys, levers, catapults and more! Make your own sidewalk chalk and Ice cream.
The College of St. Rose The College of Saint Rose offers summer camps for children entering grades 6-12. The Summer Academy for Youth (entering grades 6-10) runs July 9-August 17, providing themes in art, business, writing, science and technology plus many more. High school students can participate in precollege experiences from July 9-20 in music, filmmaking Sand Lake Center for the Arts and visual arts. www.strose.edu/summer Summer Youth Programs
KJ
’s
Gymnastics, inc
Begin July 9 through August 5 for grades K- 12. $55 - $135.
Summer Camps Starting 6/27-8/24 S 3143 Route 9 Valatie
S U M M E R
Each fun-filled week a new theme!
Youth Theatre Players, Creative Movement, Improvisation for the Theater, Filmmaking from Script to Screen,Graphic Novel Illustration, Character Creations & Comics, Play It Again-Sam, Sweet Ceramics, We Got the Beat, Let's Draw From Life, Pop Block Art, Art Smart, Creative Clay. (see page 18 for detailed descriptions) 518-674-2007 or visit www.slca-ctp.org The Sand Lake Center for the Arts ~ 2880 NY 43, Averill Park, NY ½ mile east of the blinking light in Averill Park.
Survivor ~ Circus ~ Fantasy 3 Gymnastics Weeks Party ~ Olympics World Adventure register now!
Explore the Creative Side of Science!
Moving With Science Ages 5-12 Session 4 Begins in April!!! Parents Night Out Friday April 27th
Vacation Week Day Camps Open Workouts Birthday Parties
e-mail: kjsgymnastics@msn.com (518) 758-2554 26
April 2012
SCIENCE Mad of the Capital District 518-373-2864 www.madscience.org/thecapitaldistrict info@madsciny.org
nd s,
he et rt, )
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
27
2012 Local Summer Camp & Enrichment HUB
Discovery Place Learning Center
Our Summer Enrichment Program features fun, play-based learning activities centered on weekly themes. Children ages 24-months to six years of age (or those entering First Grade) are welcome to attend. Activities are designed so children of different ages can participate together but at age-appropriate learning levels. Each theme is led by a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level teacher or professional.
The Sidney Albert Albany JCC Center Camps from June 11 to August 31 offers an outdoor adventure experience during the summer. Our three summer day camps cater to children ages 3 to 15, filling every day with activities, friendship and fun! Our spectacular facilities include the gym, outdoor pool, fields and pavilion at the Center, as well as offsite locations at beautiful Gravel Pond in Grafton , NY ( Camp Olam ) and at Warnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lake in East Berne, NY (Teen Camp). Children improve their physical skills with swimming, boating, water skiing and ropes courses; they develop positive social skills and self-esteem as they select daily activities, and collaborate with other campers in individual and whole camp events. They learn about their heritage through song and dance, blessings over food and Shabbat programming. They grow and learn while forging friendships and positive attitudes that last a lifetime. We count among our camp alumni several board members, staff and other community leaders, who credit Center camps with transforming their young lives, and whose children have continued the traditions as SAAJCC campers and counselors!
YMCA of EAST GREENBUSH & TROY This summer, thousands of kids will enjoy camp at the Capital District YMCA. We provide high-quality experiences that help your child build confidence, gain self-esteem, and develop character. Our experienced staff demonstrate our values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. You can depend on us for safe, well-supervised camp activities.
Discovery Place Learning Center, LLC
Teaching children their way every day!
479-1110
Now Enrolling 2012 -2013
Preschool & Toddler Learning Groups Ages 24 mos to 5 yrs
April Open House SATURDAY APRIL 21st, 10:30-11:30am
Baby & Me
8 week session begins April 26th
Birthday Parties
Now booking!
Spanish Instruction!! Weekly for 3 & 4 year olds for 2012-2013!!
749 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (between Enterprise & E. Greenbush Diner) Terry Duncan, Master of Sciences in Education Lynn La Voie-Stephens, Master of Arts in Speech Pathology
SATURDAY HOURS & INDOOR PLAYGYM Check website or facebook for information
www.discoveryplaceny.com 28
April 2012
A
by
Th pr ha Ia Le pa ot dis
Be au tal sti
es,
n
s!
ur
by Debbie Gaylord The cute kid on the cover is my son playing little league with a program called STRIDE and Twin Town Little League. Jake is so happy when he hits the ball and runs the bases. As a parent, I am grateful to STRIDE and to the kids from Twin Town Little League who act as Jake’s buddies each Saturday for they are part of something BIG – Teaching awareness about autism (and other disabilities) by pairing “typical” kids with those who have disabilities. Jake was diagnosed with autism at the age of two in 2005. Before then, I had no idea what it was since no one I knew had autism. In the past seven years, I have read a zillion books and talked to every specialist and therapist about this disorder but I still have more questions about the mysteries of autism. Essentially, what experts do know is that autism is a spectrum
PIANO FOR SPECIAL KIDZ teaching students of all ages & abilities beginners welcome
Dee Cucinotta BA Music MS Special Education
6WXGLRV LQ /DWKDP DQG 1RUWK *UHHQEXVK 518.331.9695
78279
kly e
AUTISM, AWARENESS & COMPASSION
www.piano4specialkidz.com Complete Selection of Instruments, Supplies & Books
Rocky’s Music Studio
disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, communication, obsessive compulsive behaviors and repetition and behavioral challenges. There are varying degrees of severity. Jake with his buddy Dylan of Twin Townes League
One of the biggest challenges of autism today is lack of awareness by our society. Most children with autism are labeled as weird, bullied or just plain misunderstood. Many parents of children with autism have seen their children treated unfairly at one time or another especially because they look “normal” . We believe Jake deserves the rich experiences of his siblings. Some may say this is selfish but tell me that when your little boy runs to the window to watch with sad eyes as the rest of us drive away. He may not be able to say it but he wants to come too! So we try to bring him where we go and inevitably it goes something like this: When Jake walks up to someone at a restaurant and drinks the soda from their straw, or walks over to hug a complete stranger, or yells at them (because he doesn’t speak like everyone else), it is not surprising that people are confused. They are not accustomed to differences that disrupt their norms and wonder why this typical looking kid is being so rude. Strangers often look puzzled or angry or they pity us. Some people even look incredulous. We can only explain Jake’s behavior to one person at a time. “Sorry. He has Autism. He doesn’t mean to drink your soda,” we tell them. Even our children know they have to explain. Things are getting better lately. More people in our community know Jake personally and it seems as if more people know the meaning of the word AUTISM. It does help. So, the next time you meet a kid at the playground or the doctors office or at the supermarket and he grabs your child’s toy, or eats your French fries or he is in full out tantrum mode – BE AWARE...It may be AUTISM so have a little compassion.
LESSONS ~ Any Age ~ Any Level drums, guitar, bass, brass, woodwins, voice & more
April 19 - Ukelele Group Class April 21 - Guitar Maintenance Class April 28 - Drum Clinic w/ Scott Kettner From the Mississippi to the Capibaribe Morphing Brazil w/ New Orleans on the drumset
For more information please call
(518) 429-6380 or email rpetro57@gmail.com
visit www.rockysmusicstudio.com Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
29
Kids Page Sponsored by
DISCOVERY PLACE LEARNING CENTER, LLC
KID’s FUN PAGE
7HDFKLQJ FKLOGUHQ WKHLU ZD\ HYHU\ GD\
479-1110 749 Columbia Turnpike East Greenbush Between Enterprise & E. Greenbush Diner
HAPPY EASTER!!
M a z e
C O L O R I N G
V 7
H
H 7
F W
W 6
30
April 2012
'RHV 7LQQLWXV FDXVH KHDULQJ ORVV" ,W VHHPV WKDW P\ KHDULQJ KDV JRWWHQ ZRUVH DQG LW VHHPHG WR EH ZKHQ , GHYHORSHG 7LQQLWXV *UHJRU\ .LQGHUKRRN
1R ±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
ʭ ɸʆʍʊʆʗʊʏʈ ʚʐʖʓ ʔʚʎʑʕʐʎʔ ʭ ɫʎʑʐʘʆʓʊʏʈ ʚʐʖ ʕʉʓʐʖʈʉ ʂʄʕʊʗʆ ʄʂʓʆ ʭ ɮʆʍʑʊʏʈ ʚʐʖ ʓʆʂʄʉ ʚʐʖʓ ʈʐʂʍʔ
1542 Columbia Turnpike Schodack
www.schodackchiropractor.com
The Living Well All Your Life Goals Your Way
As each drop of water is unique so is each person’s path to wellness INDIVIDUALIZED WELLNESS PLANNING WHOLISTIC FITNESS, NUTRITION AND GOAL SETTING
424-0817 ~ Laura Ann Higgins Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
31
WELLNESS, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Fantastic Sams
Fantastic Sams
740 Hoosick Street, Troy, PH: 518-271-8526 M-F 9-8, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-3
596 Col. Tpke., East Greenbush, PH: 518-4794504 M-F 9-8, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-3
Any Color or Highlight Service Any FS Hair Care Product Deep Conditioning Treatment
$5.00 Off
FREE
$5.00
Includes Cut & Blowdry
Buy any 2 FS Products and get 1 free
With any Color or Highlight Service
Expires 04/27/2012. Limit one person per coupon. Longer hair extra. Not valid with any other offer.
of equal or lesser valu. Expires 04/27/2012. Limit one person per coupon. Not valid with any other offer.
Expires 04/27/2012. Limit one person per coupon. Not valid with any other offer.
De I’v loo loo
S Series iQ - THE SMARTEST, MOST ADVANCED HEARING AIDS AVAILABLE.
Welcome to S Series – the world’s top selling line of hearing aids. Featuring Drive Architecture,™ Starky’s state-of-the-art, integrated circuit platform.
Je
De Am ma
Du me an
Naturopathic consultation services for individualized lifestyle & nutritional support for both adult and pediatric population. Other services include homeopathy, botanicals, nutraceuticals, gentle naturopathic
19 Yearssince of Experience Licensed 1991
detoxification, and mind-body support. To set-up a free 15 minute consultation, please contact Dr. Cole:
77 Troy Road, Suite E ~ East Greenbush, NY 518-701-4587 ~ www.amycolend.com 32
April 2012
WELLNESS, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Word of Mouth
by Joseph Lapinski, DDS
nt
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Welcoming New Patients Providing heathly, beautiful smiles for your entire family
d
h de
LAPINSKI DENTAL
Dear Dr. Lapinski: I’ve had many fillings over the years. Most of them are silver-ish looking. Recently, I was given the option for a “white” filling. It looks better but is there a difference?
114 Troy Road ~ East Greenbush, NY
477-8428 www.LapinskiDental.com
Jennifer C. Troy, NY Dear Jernifer: Amalgam: The silver filling, has been the dominant material for placing fillings for many years and is a very durable and reliable material for fixing back teeth. Due to its dark grey color, it’s considered un-esthetic. More recently, some people have raised concerns regarding the metal & mercury present in amalgam. Because of these reasons, the use of amalgam has begun to decline. I still believe it to be a viable and safe material. If you are interested in this topic, start with a reliable source like the American Dental Association for more information.
Dear Dr. Lapinski…..
HAPPY 15th ANNIVERSARY LAPINSKI DENTAL has been Keeping us SMILING since April 1,1997 To Many More…..Your Staff
Daryl, Karen, Cindy, Kristin, Nancy, Tracy, Lisa, Laura & Vanessa
Composites: The “tooth colored” or white filling has become a very popular material in recent years. Initially, used primarily in the front teeth, the “Smile Zone”, advancements in the quality of materials and bonding agents makes it possible and popular to use all teeth. Composites have some limitations. It is usually not the best choice for an entire cusp, a large portion of a front tooth has broken off or if you require a very large filling. In these cases, the most common alternatives would be amalgam fillings or full coverage crowns. So, not all materials are suitable in all cases and each person must be evaluated individually to find the best option. Value, durability and cosmetics are all considered and your dentist can help you choose the right restoration for your tooth. Remember that whatever you choose, KEEP SMILING! Photos of both types of fillings, links and informational resources are available at www.LapinskiDental.com.
Y www.LapinskiDental.com 114 Troy Road, East Greenbush
As always, please discuss your concerns with your dentist or hygienist. We can’t help you if we don’t know about it. Send questions to DrJoe@LapinskiDental.
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
33
REAL ES TATE ~ CL ASSIFIED Charming Country Store For Sale
Krafts By Kim 3395 Columbia Turnpike Rensselaer, R NY 12144 (518)477-1274
L
S F m
H M T Sa C
4
History Meets Modern Comfort in this Restored Center Hall Colonial in Schodack
5 bedroom, 3.5 bath (plus bonus room) 3600 square ft home on 1.3 acres, in park-like setting with stream running through property, professionally landscaped. Part of the Muitzes Kill Historic District and listed on the National Historic Registry, the home was built by Phillip Schemerhorn in 1791. It was the first meeting place of the Masons in Rensselaer County. Unique historic features include, stone foundation, parquette floor in foyer, original architectural details, hand hewn beams throughout, vaulted ceiling in full 3rd floor attic, original wide-board floors on 1st & 2nd floors. Newly renovated in 2005 with an addition of master suite w/bathroom and jacuzzi tub, walk-in closet, a second bedroom with full bath, second floor laundry, ample storage space, new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and 2.5 car garage. Updated electric, plumbing, heating and new septic system, all new energy star windows, *including in the attic and basement.
MLS # 201203756 or visit www.realtor.com
Contact: 732-2909 call for appt or open house dates
34
April 2012
3 minutes to Route 9 and I-90 and NYS Thruway entrance; 20 minutes to downtown Albany; 30 minutes to Troy; 15 minutes to North Greenbush; 5 minutes to Kinderhook. 20 minutes to Hudson, 3 hours to New York City; Minutes from Schodack Island State Park, with year-round activities and boat launch. Top-rated Schodack Central Schools, large bedrooms and plenty of space inside and out make this the perfect home for a large family.
t
e
LIKE US on facebook
6 ¶ < %0$5,1( '62 8% DOBY’s Submarine Official FB
FH LQ V G WH D U H QHG 2S *,)7 )DPLO\ 2Z
&$5'6 $9$,/$%/( WEEKLY SPECIALS!
Large menu including:
Subs, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wings, Fried Chicken, Cheese Steaks and much much more!
< $ ' 1 2 5< 0
(9(
Hours: M-W 10am-8pm; TH-F 10am-9pm; Sat 10am-8pm; Closed Sunday
2))
G XUFKDVH S E X 6 \ (YHU
43 Mall West Sand Lake, NY
| 518.674.3373
Jackson’s
OLD CHATHAM HOUSE 646 Albany Turnpike Old Chatham, NY
794-7373 open 7 days a week 11am to 10pm
Banquet Facilities ~ up to 250 people Private Dining Room ~ up to 15 people
Sushi Night Sushi from Ichiban- Monday 6-10pm
10%
OFF
with this ad regular dinner menu
2 for $20 Deal Tues & Thurs ~ 1 appetizer 2 entres
Make Your Reservations Today! Turkey, Ham, Lamb, Prime Rib
Easter Dinner
Our Towne Marketing & Consulting LLC Helping Small Businesses Tell Their Story advertising ~ design ~ media relations
Creative
Smart
Passionate
Developing creative ideas and marketing that communicate your unique value641-9330 to the world! www.ourtownerensco.com
FREE PC Cleaning With Any Other Work $35 Value
Would you like to advertise in our new Real Estate & Classified section? Contact Our Towne at 641-9330 Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
35
So You Want to Know More About Your Family History? By local Geneologist Lisa Dougherty It seems like family history is popping up all over the place these days- TV shows like â&#x20AC;&#x153;Who Do You Think You Are?, Ancestry.com commercials, smart phone apps. Genealogy is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States today, its popularity boosted by the many conveniences and opportunities for connection offered by the internet. When you get right down to it, this is the kind of hobby nearly everyone can relate to. We all have to come from somewhere! Our country is one that is made up of people of many diverse origins, so a lot of us have a curiosity about where our ancestors came from before they settled here in the United States. What were their names? How did they get here? Why did they leave their homeland? What part did they play in the history of our country? If you are pondering any of these questions, you may also be wondering about an even bigger one- how do I go about finding answers? How do I get started researching my familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history? The answer is to start with yourself and record what knowledge Lisa giving a workshop you personally have about your family. An ancestral chart is a useful tool to get you started. Write down what facts you know about yourself, your parents and your grandparents. Once you have it down on paper, you will know what information is lacking, and you can start to ask questions of family members. There is a good chance your parents or grandparents will remember facts about their parents or grandparents, people you may have never known. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to keep yourself organized and take good en rge ene et NLGV NLG V EH H notes. Write everything down. When you speak to LQ Q DQG DQG MR R someone, take notes about what they said, who was in on WUDLQLLQJ DEPENDABLE and the conversation, and the date you spoke to them. Make KNOWLEDGEABLE ADVEN ADV EN N copies of any photos or important documents using a seeks ks a agent seeks customers Please e digital camera, scanner or photocopier, whatever you to reloca a looking for real black an n have handy. Some important documents that might give PROTECTION and long Al resp All information about your ancestors are birth certificates, Lo king Loo g term RELATIONSHIP. newspaper obituaries, a naturalization record (a docuG NO GRA O ment that grants citizenship to an immigrant ancestor), LOVING G SINGLE SIN GLE,, ARTS ARTSY Y LADY LADY SE SEEKS EKS seeks w deeds to property, military discharge papers, or a family SINGLE GLE AR ARTSY TSY GU GUY. Y. If you lo love v 0XVW EH H painting, decor o atitng, ng ba bakin k g and a d bible. These are just the objects that might be found DQG QLLJK K in someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal possession. Using the informaJennifer A Forand, Agent Look no further. 3045 Route 9 tion contained on these documents and the information Valatie, NY 12184 Having one special person Bus: 518-289-4200 Cell: 518-755-9312 gained from interviewing your relatives, you can fill in for your car, home and life jennifer@jenniferforand.com some of the blanks on your Ancestral chart. insurance lets you get down In the beginning, the information you find out will accuto business with the rest of mulate quickly. Find a system of keeping track of all your your life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what I do. data that works for you and stick with it. There are several GET TO A BETTER STATEâ&#x201E;˘. CALL ME TODAY. excellent genealogy software choices that will keep track of your data and make it available to you anywhere. These include Family Tree Maker, Roots Magic and Legacy Family Tree. If you prefer old-fashioned paper, use 3 ring binders or file folders for each family you are researching. There will probably be great temptation to go to the internet and plug in your family name to see what you find, State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, but resist that urge until you learn more about some basic State Farm Indemnity Company, State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, 1101201.1 State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL records you can use to climb further into your family tree. 36
April 2012
E C
9 C P C
¡ ¡
¡
Weddings of Distinction Where the Emphasis is on Elegance
Join 4 Golf Courses for the Price of 1
,
n
e
l
y
, c .
SYCAMORE COUNTRY CLUB
EVERGREEN COUNTRY CLUB
PHEASANT HOLLOW COUNTRY CLUB
92 Sherman Road Castleton, NY 12033 Pro- Shop : 518-477-6224 Club House: 518-477-7921
2870 Phillips Road Castleton, NY Phone: 518-479-GOLF
Rt. 143 Ravena, NY 12143 Pro-Shop: 518-756-9555 Club House: 518-756-6635
· 9 Hole Championship Golf Course
t 18 Hole World Class Golf Course
· 2 Championship 18 Hole Golf Courses · Special Golf Membership Available Starting at $600 ·All Grass Driving Range
SUMMER GOLF ACADEMY Ages 8-18 years – CALL FOR DETAILS
Golf and Dining *LIW &HUWL¿FDWHV $YDLODEOH
Special Rates Golf Outings - Corporate Conferences - Luncheons - Dinner Dances - Bar Mitzvahs - Golf Leagues - Clam Bakes & Cookouts Complete Catering Facilities Joseph D. Bove, Jr. -PGA Golf Professional , General Manager, Pro Shop Evergreen Country Club Pro Shop – 518-477-6224 Jim Miller -Chief Exectutive Chef Club House 477- 7921 email: evergreenccinny@aol.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.evergreencountryclub .com HOME OF THE MIAMI PROJECT TO CURE PARALYSIS Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
37
Department Installation by Edward Pratt
Come Try Some of the most Innovative Mexican Inspired Food in the Region!
Innovative Mexican Cuisine Best Ribs in the Capital Region ~Metroland
Best Margarita in the Capital Region -Metroland - Hudson Valley Magazine
405 River Street ~ Troy ~ www.josemalone.com
518-273-2196
38
April 2012
WKH WRZQH WDYHUQ
Four Time Winner of St. Judeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wing Wars
1< $YHULOO 3DUN 1<
Voted #1 Troy Boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Girls Club Pizza Palooza
ZZZ 7KH7RZQH7DYHUQ FRP 2SHQ GD\V D ZHHN # DP Â&#x2021; 5HVHUYDWLRQV $FFHSWHG 6HUYLQJ 6XQ 7KXUV XQWLO SP a )UL 6DW XQWLO SP
Â&#x2021; :H VPRNH RXU RZQ 0HDWV DQG &KHHVHV«+DOI &KLFNHQV %HHI %ULVNHW 3XOOHG 3RUN 6W /RXLV 5LEV DQG 7XUNH\ FRPSOHWH ZLWK EDNHG EHDQV FROHVODZ DQG IUHVK EDNHG FRUQEUHDG
Â&#x2021; )XOO 0HQX LQFOXGLQJ SDVWD VHDIRRG ¿VK EHHI VDQGZLFKHV PRUH Â&#x2021; ,Q +RXVH 'U\ $JHG $QJXV 6WHDNV DQG 3ULPH 5LE )UL 6DW
Â&#x2021; 'DLO\ 6SHFLDOV SRVWHG RQ RXU ZHEVLWH WKHWRZQHWDYHUQ FRP Â&#x2021; )XOO %DU RIIHULQJ FKRLFHV RI %HHU DQG 'DLO\ 'ULQN 6SHFLDOV
447 3rd Avenue
Expires 4/30/2012 ([SLUHV Watervliet 273-0232 Fax 273-1418 Fax your order for pick up!
Expires 4/30/2012 ([SLUHV
350 2nd Avenue N. Troy 235-5552
700 Hoosick Road Brunswick 272-0144
636A New Loudon Road Route9 Latham 783-3176
NOW OPEN
203 Wolf Road Colonie 454-9490 Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ 518-641-9330 ~ debbie@ourtownerensco.com
April 2012
39
OUR TOWNE
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID ALBANY, NY PERMIT #808
Rensselaer County’s Community Resource
To Advertise - Call 641-9330
Now Offering Detailing Services! CERTIFIED COLLISION REPAIR CENTER
QUALITY SERVICE
QUALITY Companies SERVICE We Work With All Insurance We Work With All Insurance Companies 766-4004 LIFETIME WARRANTY WE HAVE RENTAL CARS 766-4004 PICK UP & DELIVERY TOWING
Lifetime Warranty Rt. 20, Nassau, 3½mi. East of 9&20 Jct. Now Available at JETS!
Rental Car ~ Pick Up Service ~ Delivery ~ Towing
Rt Route 20 Nassau ~ 3 1/2 miles east of 9 & 20 Junction 40
April 2012